Nagaland State Government today bid a ceremonial farewell to Dr J Alam, IAS, the outgoing Chief Secretary, celebrating his decades-long distinguished service marked by visionary leadership and administrative excellence.

Delivering his farewell address, Dr Alam expressed profound gratitude, describing the occasion as a “celebration of shared remembrance, professional camaraderie, and heartfelt reflection.”

Recalling his tenure, he said Nagaland has been more than a place of service—it has been “a home, a calling, and an enduring inspiration.” He acknowledged the profound influence of the state’s terrain, culture, and people in shaping him both professionally and personally.

Reflecting on his term as Chief Secretary, which began on January 29, 2021, Dr. Alam recounted that he was stepping into a role that demanded administrative acumen and deep sensitivity. He recalled key milestones –from steering the state through the COVID-19 pandemic or shaping roadmaps for climate change, agricultural transformation and digital governance.  “Each challenge brought with it, its own lessons and each success carried quiet but meaningful rewards with many milestones being achieved as a result of shared dedication and collective effort,” he remarked.

Dr Alam underscored that his legacy is not in “the number of files signed or meetings conducted” but in the positive and lasting change brought to the state. He further expressed confidence that his successors would continue to work towards Nagaland’s prosperity.

He encouraged all government officials to remain inspired and continue to provide unwavering and true service to the people of Nagaland. He reminded the officers to remain inspired, grounded in service, and committed to the values of resilience, calmness, and grace, especially in times of adversity.

He also acknowledged the media fraternity for their critical role in shaping public understanding and fostering a positive contribution towards a prosperous society.

Delivering his address, Additional Chief Secretary and Finance Commissioner, and now incoming Chief Secretary, Sentiyanger Imchen IAS, spoke on behalf of the State Government.

A batch mate of Dr Alam, Imchen shared his personal experiences and the shared journey beginning as young officers at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, Mussoorie to now serving the state Government in respective capacities.

He highlighted Dr Alam’s significant contributions bringing significant changes in the state administration and also changes in the lives of the citizens of Nagaland by timely processing of government employee pensions, conceptualization and launch of the Nagaland Solar Mission and the Nagaland Skill Mission to capitalise on the potential of the state and equipping the youth with the right skillset respectively.

Imchen also extended his appreciation to his lady wife for her continued support and patience throughout his service life.

He further said Dr Alam held several pivotal positions in the state and Central Government, but it is in his tenure as Chief Secretary of Nagaland that his leadership has shone the brightest and hoped to continue to come across opportunities to serve the nation.

Chairing the programme, Principal Secretary, Y Kikheto Sema, IAS described Dr Alam as a “responsible administrator”, who functioned with admirable clarity and order. He also added that Dr Alam’s systematic way of working was always prompt, always responsive, never leaving a file unattended or a task incomplete was truly commendable.

Outgoing Chief Secretary, Dr J Alam with senior government officials during the farewell programme (DIPR)

Kikheto noted that Alam was one of the “luckiest Chief Secretaries” with no major upheavals or disrupted events during his nearly five year term. Sema pointed out that it was not merely a matter of fortune but a reflection of his foresight and steady leadership.

Short speeches were also delivered by IAS Association, IPS Association, IFS Association, NCS Association, NPS Association, NSS Association, CANSSEA, FONSESA, NSSSA and Grade IV Association (Secretariat), Director General of Police, Rupin Sharma, IPS and Assistant Chief Engineer CAWD, Er Sungtiba Amer also delivered short speeches during the program.

Home Commissioner, Anoop Khinchi, IAS proposed the vote of thanks while State Chaplain, Rev. Izieteilung Tering invoked blessing for the event and NCSA band presented a special song.

AHODs & HODs, senior officials from various departments, family members and well wishers attended the program.

Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play

A Distinguished Career

Dr. J Alam joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1991, securing the All India 12th rank and was allotted to the Nagaland cadre. His early years saw him serve in Phek and Mon districts and later as Deputy Commissioner of Tuensang for three years.

At the State Government level, Dr. Alam has served as Additional Secretary Finance and subsequently as Secretary, overseeing the Department of Industries, Commerce & Sericulture.

In 2003, Dr. Alam went on deputation to the Central Government, serving as the Zonal Head in the Directorate General of Foreign Trade for approximately a year. He then served as the Private Secretary to a senior Cabinet Minister in charge of Fertilizers, Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, and Steel.

On returning to the state of Nagaland in 2010, Dr. Alam worked as the Home Commissioner as well as the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO). From April 2013 onwards, he served in the Central Government as Joint Secretary in the Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Human Resource Development.

Between August 2016 and February 2020, he served as Joint Secretary and later as Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Minority Affairs, focusing on matters related to the socio-economic development of the six religious minority communities in India. During this period, he managed affairs related with Haj pilgrimage, which had been newly transferred from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to the Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA).

Upon his return to Nagaland in February 2020, Dr. Alam assumed the position of Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister and as Development Commissioner of Nagaland. He assumed the position of Chief Secretary, Nagaland in January 2021

Imkong L Imchen congratulates new Chief Secretary

Advisor, Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation, Imkong L Imchen has congratulated Sentiyanger Imchen, IAS (1991 batch) for being appointed as the new Chief Secretary of Nagaland. The appointment comes following the superannuation of the incumbent Chief Secretary, Dr J Alam, IAS, with effect from August 1.

Imkong L Imchen also expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio for recognising Sentiyanger Imchen’s distinguished career and administrative insight.

He further extended his sincere appreciation and hoped for continued wisdom and strength of the Chief Minister in leading the people of Nagaland towards a more progressive and prosperous future.